Research Shows Effectiveness of Chiropractic Care for Muscle Strength

Research Shows Effectiveness of Chiropractic Care for Muscle Strength

Key Takeaways

Research increasingly supports chiropractic care as an effective approach for improving muscle strength and neuromuscular function.
Spinal manipulation may enhance communication between the nervous system and muscles, contributing to measurable strength gains.
Chiropractic care has shifted from fringe to evidence-supported, with unbiased clinical studies validating outcomes once dismissed by mainstream medicine.
Patients receiving regular chiropractic adjustments may experience improvements in both muscle activation and overall physical performance.
The growing body of research is prompting more medical providers to consider chiropractic as a complementary option for musculoskeletal care.

For decades, chiropractors have been treated by mainstream medicine as a sort of quacks selling snake oil. Recently, the tone of voice has changed and became more accepting and balanced. However, there was still the feeling among patients that Western medicine doctors don’t really trust and recommend chiropractic. But this has changed. Decades of positive results despite mounting mistrust have finally determined unbiased researchers to test the effectiveness of chiropractic therapies. And a recent study has come with great news for chiropractors: researchers have determined that chiropractic care for muscle strength is effective.

We choose to talk about this research study, because it is the first one that did not start with a prejudiced point of view – that is, trying to disprove that chiropractic works. Scientists have put aside all bias and preconceived ideas, and actually tried chiropractic adjustments on participants and monitored the results.

Chiropractic Care for Muscle Strength Tested according to Science

The research study was conducted by an international team from the Center for Chiropractic Research in New Zealand and Koc University School of Medicine in Turkey. The researchers also benefitted from input from the Australian Spinal Research Foundation.

The researchers used two groups of participants:
• One group received chiropractic adjustments to solve various subluxations
• The second group (the control group) who did not receive any chiropractic treatments.

The control group performed various physical activities involving muscle contractions. The other group performed the same activities, for the same duration of time, after adjustments.

Adjustments Make the Whole Body Work Better

The point of the research study was to measure the H reflex curve – an indicator to the response of the spinal cord to various stimuli. A healthy and fit person (for instance, a professional athlete) has a high value for the H reflex curve. This means that the messages travel quickly from the brain to the muscle, allowing the person to run fast, perform demanding physical activities and have sharp reflexes (for instance, to avoid a fall or an obstacle).

With chiropractic care for muscle strength, the average people who participated in the study displayed results similar to those of athletes.

Chiropractic Care for Muscle Strength – As Effective as Weight Training

To the researcher’s own surprise, the participants who were adjusted showed above average muscle strength and resistance to fatigue. As one of the researchers involved in the study, Dr. Heidi Haavik, explained:

“Our results were almost identical to three weeks of strength training. […] What we can say based on this study is that when we adjust subluxations, we improve strength, we prevent fatigue and we change the way the brain drives our muscles.”

The Results of the Chiropractic Therapy Experiment in Numbers

The results of the study speak louder than any words. The group who received chiropractic care for muscle strength had:
•    A 60% increase in the electrical activity readings (the speed of messages passed from the brain)
•    A 16% increase in absolute force measurements
•    A 45% increase in the drive from the brain to the muscle
•    A small but relevant increase in the H reflex curve.

These are precise measurements, performed by scientists using tested and proven research methods. Thus, they are as reliable as any other type of research conducted by the mainstream healthcare sector.

This study proves that chiropractic care is effective and a reliable form of medicine, which you can trust. If you need treatment or pain relief in a safe and non-invasive manner, find a chiropractor near you in our online directory and book your first appointment!

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can chiropractic care actually improve muscle strength?

Research suggests that spinal manipulation may improve muscle strength by optimizing nervous system function. When spinal joints are properly aligned, nerve signals travel more efficiently to muscles, which can enhance activation and output. Several studies have found measurable strength improvements in patients following chiropractic treatment, particularly in muscles connected to spinal segments that were previously restricted or misaligned.

How does chiropractic treatment affect the nervous system and muscles?

Chiropractic adjustments target restricted spinal joints, which can interfere with normal nerve signaling. By restoring joint mobility, adjustments may reduce inhibitory signals and allow muscles to contract more fully and efficiently. This neuromuscular connection is a key reason why some patients notice improved strength, coordination, and endurance after a course of chiropractic care.

What does the research say about chiropractic care and physical performance?

A growing number of peer-reviewed studies have examined chiropractic care's effect on muscle function and physical performance. Findings indicate that spinal manipulation can positively influence muscle strength, reaction time, and proprioception. While research is ongoing, the evidence has become substantial enough that many sports medicine and rehabilitation professionals now incorporate chiropractic into performance and recovery programs.

Is chiropractic care safe for people looking to build or maintain muscle strength?

For most healthy adults, chiropractic care is considered a safe, non-invasive option for supporting musculoskeletal health. Chiropractors are trained to assess each patient individually and tailor treatment accordingly. As with any healthcare approach, a thorough evaluation before beginning care helps ensure the treatment plan is appropriate for your specific condition, goals, and health history.

How many chiropractic visits are typically needed to see improvements in muscle strength?

The number of visits varies depending on the individual, the condition being addressed, and the treatment goals. Some patients notice changes within a few sessions, while others benefit from a longer course of care. Your chiropractor will typically recommend a care plan based on your initial evaluation and reassess your progress regularly to adjust frequency as needed.

Can chiropractic care complement exercise and physical therapy for strength goals?

Yes. Chiropractic care is commonly used alongside physical therapy, corrective exercise, and rehabilitation programs. By addressing spinal restrictions that may limit muscle activation, chiropractic adjustments can help patients get more out of their exercise efforts. Many providers in sports medicine and rehabilitation settings coordinate chiropractic and exercise-based care for this reason.